While working last week, my friend and I heard a thump
on the plate glass picture window of the shop…
I had a sickening feeling in my stomach
because I’ve heard such thumps
before.
I sighed as I went to the door and looked out.
A small bird lay, stunned, below on the sidewalk.
Rushing over, I stooped and gathered her up in my hand.
She was a tiny, immature female Cardinal.
My very favorite bird- more admired and revered even above an Eagle.
They often appear to me and remind me of loved ones who are gone.
I took the tiny creature inside. Her neck wobbled too freely.
My friend held her as
I reached for a small box to set her in.
In my heart
I wanted her to just be stunned. My brain
knew better.
Her feathers were as soft as kitten fur.
Before I could turn back
her spirit slipped away.
Her season
so soon
was over.
©Nancilynn Saylor
photo from Pintrest of immature female Cardinal
Nancilynn is Writing again 
So very sad, but beautiful that her fall was witnessed, her body lifted and held lovingly for just a tiny bit of time.
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Oh Jazz it truly took my breath away as hers left. My friend had just lost her husband a month earlier and our emotions were raw. This moment lifted us even in our sorrow.
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